Looks like I may need to raise engine up to change pan gasket. Anyone donre this in 61 F85?

 

You'll likely need to do more than just raise the engine. The sump is centrally located and is trapped between the crossmember at the front and the steering linkage at the back. Even if you pull the drag link, I suspect that you will not be able to drop the pan enough to clear the pickup. Also, you cannot pull the engine with the trans in the car - there is not enough clearance to slide the engine forward to clear the input shaft on the trans - the RotoHydramatic 5 has a long input shaft like a manual trans; the torque converter (fluid coupling, actually) is inside the trans. The trans tunnel is not tall enough to raise the engine sufficiently. I had to pull the engine and trans as a unit.

 

holy crap..

 

the CSM claims that if you remove the dipstick, idler arm from the relay rod and the flywheel cover it can be removed. also mentions that the crank may need turned to where the pan will clear the counterweights. it still won't be easy.

 

I was able to pull the engine and trans in my 62, bolt a new motor to the old trans, and drop the assembly back in on a Saturday.